Our Team

Christina Vrotsou

Christina is a social scientist with a diverse academic background, including studies in Gender and Intersectionality, Management in International Organisations and Finance. Over the years, she has effectively collaborated with various entities, including international organisations, local and international non-governmental agencies, intergovernmental organisations and the regional public sector. Christina has conducted in-depth research and analysis of gender-related issues and has been involved in many service-based projects targeting disadvantaged and marginalised groups. She has intensively engaged in the refugee response scheme and through the different posts and collaborations she has supported numerous vulnerable individuals, including children at risk, gender-based violence survivors, people with dis/abilities and so on. Furthermore, Christina’s diverse experience include the management and implementation of EU-funded R&I projects.


Evi Chavele

A versatile social anthropologist who has successfully held positions in both the non-profit and the corporate sector with noticeable achievements. Evi has for several years collaborated with some of the most renowned non-governmental environmental agencies where she was involved in developing awareness raising campaigns, communication and fundraising strategies, as well as building networks of volunteers and other stakeholders. Furthermore, she has gained valuable experience in support provision to vulnerable groups through her long engagement in service-based projects targeting refugees and migrants residing in the urban context. She has also conducted independent research and delivered assessments on environmental and humanitarian issues. As a freelance consultant and trainer, she offers expertise in sustainable communication, marketing, and sponsorship strategies. In recent years, she is also holding a key role in operations management, where she undertakes high-level HR tasks, analyses organisational processes, and works towards improving operational efficacy.


Ilektra Simitsi

Ilektra Simitsi holds a PhD in European Law with specialization in European Governance and the Open Method of Coordination from the Law School of the Democritus University of Thrace. She holds a degree from the Department of Political Science and Public Administration of the Kapodistrian University of Athens, a Master's degree in European Law from the Law School of Democritus University and a Master's degree in Public Policy and Human Development from the Maastricht Graduate School of Governance - UNU Merit. Her research interests include European Integration, Rule of Law, Human Rights, Migration and Education, Governance and Social Policy and are accompanied by her work experience in the design, management and implementation of projects funded by the European Union.


Maria Kandilioti

Maria holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics, complemented by advanced studies in Cultural Management and Regional Development and Politics. She brings extensive experience from the non-governmental sector, having served as a financial and project manager for initiatives supporting vulnerable populations. In her subsequent roles as a project manager, Maria has adeptly navigated the complex world of EU-funded R&I projects, showcasing her ability to lead, innovate, and deliver meaningful results. Her work has not only emphasised project execution but also contributed to the fields of research and innovation, driving forward projects that address critical societal challenges. Maria has a strong understanding of effective communication, collaboration, and a thorough attention to detail in achieving project goals and fostering advancements.


Marina Natsia

Marina holds a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Democritus University of Thrace, complemented by postgraduate studies in International Relations at the Humanities Department of Utrecht University and Gender Studies at the Department of Social Anthropology and History of the University of the Aegean. She is experienced in research, project management, and training facilitation, with expertise in Gender and Sexuality studies. Her research interests encompass a broad spectrum of social topics, including gender justice, gender-based violence, diversity, equity and inclusion practices, sexual and reproductive education, human rights, migration, and marginalised communities.